Etihad Park
Name of the park:
Etihad Park
Location:
Yas Leisure Drive, Yas Island, YS1, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Nearby landmarks: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Mall
Size:
Large outdoor venue — capacity for 25,000 to 40,000 people; operates as an amphitheater and concert space (exact acreage not publicly specified, but considered one of the largest open-air venues in the region)
Opening hours / closing days:
Opening hours vary depending on scheduled events; generally opens several hours before event start times. No fixed daily opening; operates on event days only.
Entry fee:
There is no general entry fee — ticket prices vary per event, and some events may include additional charges for parking or VIP access. Check specific event details for pricing.
Type of Park
Etihad Park is best classified as an urban entertainment and events venue. While it’s often called a “park” by name, it is not a green public park, nature reserve, botanical garden, amusement park, or wildlife center. Instead, it functions as a large-scale urban amphitheater and outdoor arena, designed specifically for live performances, cultural events, and major celebrations. It’s a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s vision to position Yas Island as a global hub for entertainment, sports, and leisure tourism.
What Makes Etihad Park Special?
Etihad Park stands out as a premier entertainment destination in the Middle East, combining world-class music, culture, and leisure in one striking outdoor venue. Opened in 2009 under the original name Du Arena, it was rebranded as Etihad Park in 2021, symbolizing a new era of live entertainment in Abu Dhabi. What makes Etihad Park special is not just its impressive capacity — accommodating between 25,000 and 40,000 attendees — but its vibrant atmosphere and prime location within the dynamic Yas Island entertainment district.
Set against the backdrop of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and just steps from Yas Marina Circuit, Etihad Park has hosted international superstars like Rihanna, The Killers, and Andrea Bocelli, as well as global festivals, sporting celebrations, and cultural events. The vibe is electric, blending luxury, excitement, and Arabian hospitality. Its open-air amphitheater design allows fans to experience live music under the stars, creating unforgettable memories. With state-of-the-art sound and light systems and a flexible layout for both seated and standing audiences, Etihad Park offers an unmatched concert experience in the region.
Park Highlights & Attractions
Etihad Park is not a traditional public park but a large outdoor amphitheater and events venue designed for live concerts, festivals, and entertainment spectacles. As such, it does not feature walking trails, playgrounds, botanical gardens, or lakes in the way a nature park or family park would.
However, to give you a detailed and intentional overview, here’s what Etihad Park does offer in terms of visitor experience, along with clarification on what is not available:
Main Attractions
Open-Air Amphitheater:
The centerpiece of Etihad Park is its massive open-air amphitheater with flexible configurations, allowing for general admission standing, seated events, or mixed layouts. It hosts world-famous concerts, cultural festivals, sports ceremonies (like Formula 1 after-race concerts), and community events.VIP Lounges & Hospitality Areas:
Premium ticket holders can access VIP sections with elevated viewing platforms, private bars, hospitality suites, and dedicated service.Food & Beverage Zones:
Multiple food and beverage kiosks, pop-up restaurants, and licensed bars operate during event days, offering a wide range of international cuisines, snacks, and drinks.Merchandise & Retail Stalls:
Event-specific merchandise, memorabilia, and artist merchandise are often available at designated retail points within the venue.
Walking Trails
Etihad Park does not have dedicated walking trails.
However, within Yas Island, surrounding the park, visitors can stroll along:
Yas Leisure Drive and Yas Marina Circuit walking paths,
offering pedestrian-friendly areas with views of Ferrari World, Yas Marina, and nearby attractions.
Length of walking areas within the Etihad Park venue itself is limited to internal concourse paths — these are functional circulation routes rather than leisure walking trails and are open only during event hours.
Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones
Etihad Park does not have fixed playgrounds or kids’ zones.
However, family-friendly events sometimes set up:
Temporary kids’ zones with inflatables, face painting, and kid-friendly entertainment during specific festivals or community days.
These are usually for children aged 3–12, but availability depends entirely on the event, and they are not permanent installations.
Families attending concerts should note that:
Age restrictions may apply to certain events (for example, over-21-only for licensed events).
For all-ages shows, children under 16 often must be accompanied by an adult.
Gardens & Green Spaces
Etihad Park does not feature dedicated gardens, landscaped areas, or botanical sections.
The venue itself is an event-focused space with open, flat grounds designed to accommodate large crowds.
However, nearby Yas Island areas offer:
Small landscaped public areas along Yas Marina and near Yas Mall, which visitors can access separately from the park.
Lakes & Water Features
There are no lakes or natural water features inside Etihad Park.
That said, it is located near:
Yas Marina waterfront,
which offers stunning marina views, luxury yachts, and waterfront dining — accessible outside the event venue.
Family Areas / Sections
Etihad Park does provide family sections during selected family-friendly events. These include:
Dedicated family zones with controlled entry, usually away from bar areas.
Seating areas suitable for parents with children.
For most large concerts and adult-focused events, families should check specific guidelines, as some shows may not be suitable for young children.
Summary
| Feature | Availability at Etihad Park |
|---|---|
| Walking Trails | No formal trails; only event concourses; walking areas around Yas Island |
| Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones | Temporary, event-based setups; no permanent playgrounds; age 3–12 |
| Gardens & Green Spaces | No dedicated gardens; nearby landscaped public areas outside venue |
| Lakes & Water Features | None inside park; Yas Marina waterfront nearby |
| Family Sections | Available at selected events; varies per event |
Facilities & Amenities
Etihad Park is designed as a large-scale event venue, offering visitors a range of facilities focused on comfort, convenience, and premium event experience. Here’s a detailed and intentional breakdown of what’s available, what’s free, and what may come at an extra charge:
Restrooms & Drinking Water
Restrooms:
Etihad Park provides multiple permanent restroom blocks across the venue, located near main entrances, along the concourses, and within VIP zones. These include:Male and female toilets
Accessible restrooms for people with disabilities
Baby changing facilities (available at family sections and selected events)
➤ Charges: Use of restrooms is free of charge for all ticket holders.
Drinking Water:
Drinking water availability depends on the event. Typically:Water refill stations or coolers are provided free at select points for general admission guests during outdoor events.
Sealed bottled water is sold at F&B stalls for approx. AED 10–15 per bottle.
Premium zones and hospitality suites often include complimentary water as part of the VIP service.
➤ Tip: For large-scale concerts, visitors are usually not allowed to bring outside liquids; check event rules beforehand.
Parking & Accessibility
Parking:
Etihad Park offers multiple parking lots categorized as:General parking (usually included with most tickets, but for very large events, it may cost approx. AED 20–50 per car)
VIP parking (available only for premium ticket holders or at an extra fee of AED 100–200, depending on event)
Accessible parking close to venue entrances for visitors with disabilities; free but requires advance request or permit.
Shuttle services are sometimes provided free from Yas Mall or Yas Marina Circuit parking areas during mega-events.
Accessibility:
The venue is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with:Step-free entrances
Dedicated viewing platforms for guests with mobility challenges
Assistance services on request (advance coordination recommended)
Food & Beverages
Etihad Park hosts a wide range of food and beverage outlets, tailored to the scale and theme of each event. Typical options include:
Pop-up food trucks and kiosks offering street food, snacks, and international cuisine (e.g., burgers, shawarma, sushi, pizza)
➤ Prices range approx. AED 30–70 per meal.Licensed bars selling beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails
➤ Alcohol prices are high: expect approx. AED 50–70 per beer, AED 60–100 for cocktails.VIP Hospitality Suites / Lounges
➤ Premium tickets often include complimentary F&B or offer access to gourmet buffets, specialty drinks, and table service.Dietary options: Many events now include vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free selections, though choice may be limited.
➤ Charges:
General F&B is paid separately; nothing is included in a standard ticket.
VIP or hospitality packages often bundle F&B into the ticket price.
Summary Table
| Amenity | Free / Extra Charge |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Free for all ticket holders |
| Drinking Water Stations | Free refill stations (if provided); bottled water AED 10–15 |
| General Parking | Usually free; large events may charge AED 20–50 |
| VIP Parking | AED 100–200 or included with premium tickets |
| Accessible Parking | Free (advance permit required) |
| Food & Drinks (General) | Paid separately; AED 30–70 for food, AED 50–100 for alcohol |
| VIP Food & Drinks | Often complimentary or bundled with VIP tickets |
Activities & Things to Do
Etihad Park is not a conventional park for everyday recreation — it is a dedicated live event venue — so activities here are tied closely to its event calendar. Visitors don’t come for casual jogging or picnicking but for high-energy concerts, major festivals, and special events that transform the space into one of the Middle East’s top entertainment hubs. Below is a detailed and intentional breakdown of the key activities, fitness options, and events, including what’s free and what comes with a price tag.
Sports & Fitness
Etihad Park itself does not offer permanent sports courts, fitness equipment, or running tracks.
However, during select events or festivals, it may host:
Fitness concerts / dance festivals:
Example: Les Mills LIVE Abu Dhabi, Nike Training Club events — large group workout sessions blending fitness, music, and celebrity trainers.
➤ Charges: Ticketed separately, typically AED 100–300 depending on the event and access (general or VIP).Yas Island Fitness Festival (when hosted):
Occasionally, the broader Yas Island area uses Etihad Park space to host wellness weekends, boot camps, or fun runs tied to brands like ADCB Zayed Sports or Abu Dhabi 360.
➤ Some activities free to register, others paid (AED 50–150) per workshop or masterclass.Nearby fitness options (outside the park):
Yas Marina Circuit offers free community runs (Tuesday nights) and cycling sessions, but this is outside Etihad Park.
Picnicking
Etihad Park does not permit regular picnicking — there are no grassy lawns, picnic tables, or barbecue zones.
However, during family-friendly festivals or daytime concerts, they sometimes allow:
Outdoor seating areas with blankets or mats (provided by the event or by guests) for a more relaxed, picnic-style vibe.
➤ Charges: No extra cost, but only during approved events; outside food and drink usually not allowed for security reasons.Premium picnic packages (at select events):
For example, at jazz festivals or family shows, organizers may offer reserved picnic zones with hampers, soft seating, or premium snacks.
➤ Charges: AED 250–500 per couple or family (including food + reserved space).
Events & Festivals
This is where Etihad Park truly shines — it’s a year-round magnet for:
Global concerts & headline acts:
Major artists like Post Malone, Bruno Mars, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ed Sheeran, and Andrea Bocelli have performed here.
➤ Charges: Ticket prices from AED 250 (general admission) to AED 1,500+ (VIP packages); early bird discounts often apply.Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after-race concerts:
Some of the world’s biggest performances happen here during F1 weekend, with tickets bundled into the F1 race packages.
➤ Charges: Included with 3-day F1 tickets or sold as separate concert-only tickets (~AED 400–800).Cultural & family festivals:
Example: Mother of the Nation Festival, Yasalam Beats on the Beach — bringing together music, food, art, and family fun.
➤ Some free public access; premium activities inside may charge AED 50–150.Brand-sponsored events:
Red Bull Cliff Diving parties, Adidas sneaker drops, Netflix screenings — occasional pop-up activations that mix entertainment and marketing.
➤ Usually free with RSVP or included in festival tickets.
Summary Table
| Activity / Event Type | Free or Extra Cost |
|---|---|
| Fitness concerts / wellness festivals | AED 100–300 per ticket, depending on event |
| Casual picnicking | Not available; only allowed at some family events |
| Premium picnic packages | AED 250–500 per group (includes reserved area & snacks) |
| Major music concerts | AED 250–1,500+ per ticket |
| F1 after-race concerts | Included in F1 race ticket or AED 400–800 standalone |
| Family festivals / cultural events | Some free; premium zones AED 50–150 |
| Brand-sponsored pop-ups | Usually free with RSVP or included in event tickets |
Visitor Information
Etihad Park operates differently from regular public parks — it does not have fixed daily opening hours because it functions exclusively as an event venue. Below is a detailed breakdown based on typical event patterns, seasonal adjustments, cultural occasions, entry fees, and visitor rules to help you plan effectively.
Opening Hours
Etihad Park only opens on event days, with opening and closing times determined by the specific event schedule. However, here’s a general guide:
| Day / Season / Occasion | Typical Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Regular concert/event days | Gates open 2–3 hours before showtime (usually from 5:00 PM–6:00 PM); closing around midnight or 1:00 AM. |
| Ramadan | Evening events only; gates usually open after Iftar (~7:30 PM); closing by 1:00 AM or after event end. |
| Eid al-Fitr / Eid al-Adha | Family-friendly events may open earlier (~4:00 PM); concerts typically follow standard evening timings. |
| UAE National Day (Independence Day) | Special concerts & fireworks; often open early (~4:00 PM) for festivities; closing late (~1:00–2:00 AM). |
| Summer season (June–August) | Mainly evening events due to heat; gates open ~6:00 PM onwards. |
| Winter season (November–February) | Earlier start times possible for festivals (~3:00–4:00 PM), with later closures for night events. |
⚠ Important: Always check the specific event schedule when booking, as times vary.
Entry Fees
There is no general park entry fee because Etihad Park only admits visitors for ticketed events. Fees depend entirely on the event type and ticket category.
| Event Type | Entry Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Standard concerts | AED 250–500 (general admission), AED 800–1,500 (VIP) |
| Family festivals / community days | Free public access or AED 50–150 for premium sections |
| Formula 1 after-race concerts | Included in F1 weekend pass or AED 400–800 concert-only |
| Fitness or wellness events | AED 100–300 per ticket |
| Picnic-style premium zones | AED 250–500 per couple/family |
Family Day:
Occasionally, festivals like the Mother of the Nation Festival or Yasalam organize dedicated family days where families with children get early or discounted access. Age policies may apply (e.g., kids under 12 free with paying adult; over 16 may need individual tickets).
Rules & Regulations
To ensure visitor safety and smooth event operations, Etihad Park enforces clear regulations:
✅ Allowed:
Small handbags (subject to security check)
Officially purchased event tickets (digital or physical)
Necessary medication (with prescription)
Baby strollers (family events only)
❌ Not Allowed:
Outside food or drinks (except baby food)
Professional cameras and recording equipment
Weapons, sharp objects, or illegal substances
Large bags or luggage
Umbrellas (for crowd safety)
Other key rules:
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Alcohol only served to visitors aged 21+, with valid ID.
Smoking allowed only in designated outdoor areas.
Re-entry may not be allowed — check ticket T&Cs.
Ticket resale or scalping strictly prohibited.
How to Get There
Reaching Etihad Park on Yas Island is straightforward, thanks to Abu Dhabi’s well-developed road networks and Yas Island’s status as a major entertainment hub. Below is a detailed guide covering all transport methods, costs, and parking details — written with clear, intentional advice to help visitors plan smoothly.
By Car
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Etihad Park, especially for visitors from Abu Dhabi city, Dubai, or other Emirates.
From Abu Dhabi city center:
~30-minute drive (30–35 km) via Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Highway (E12) towards Yas Island.From Dubai:
~1 hour drive (115–120 km) via Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), then merge onto E12 towards Yas Island.From Al Ain or other Emirates:
~1.5–2 hours depending on location; follow E22 or E11 highways.
Toll costs:
Abu Dhabi’s Darb toll system applies: AED 4 per crossing during peak hours (Monday–Saturday, 7–9 AM & 5–7 PM). No toll on Sundays or off-peak.
Estimated fuel costs (one way):
Abu Dhabi: AED 10–20
Dubai: AED 30–50
Al Ain: AED 40–60
By Public Transport
While public transport is available, it’s less convenient compared to driving.
From Abu Dhabi city:
Take bus line 102 from Abu Dhabi Bus Station to Yas Island (Ferrari World stop). From there, walk (~10 minutes) or take a Yas Express shuttle.From Dubai:
No direct bus to Yas Island. Travelers must:
1️⃣ Take the intercity bus to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
2️⃣ Transfer to local bus 102 to Yas Island.
Metro:
There is no Dubai or Abu Dhabi metro station near Yas Island. Dubai Metro ends in Dubai; Abu Dhabi currently has no metro system.
Public transport cost estimate:
Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus: AED 25–35
Abu Dhabi to Yas Island by bus: AED 4–6
Total Dubai–Yas Island (one way, by public transport): ~AED 30–40
⚠ Note: Travel time by public transport from Dubai can take 2.5–3.5 hours due to transfers.
Parking Details
Etihad Park offers extensive parking, but its convenience and cost depend on ticket type and event scale.
General Parking:
Available at Yas Island public lots near the venue.
➤ Usually free for most events. For mega-events (e.g., Formula 1, headline concerts), a fee of AED 20–50 per car may apply.VIP Parking:
Closest to the venue gates, reserved for premium or VIP ticket holders.
➤ Priced around AED 100–200, sometimes included with VIP tickets.Accessible Parking:
Designated spots near entrances for visitors with disabilities.
➤ Free, but must request in advance or display valid permit.Shuttle Services:
For large events, free shuttle buses run from Yas Mall, Yas Marina Circuit, and other Yas Island parking hubs to Etihad Park.
Best hours to find parking:
Arrive 2–3 hours before event start to secure nearby general parking.
For mega-events like F1 after-race concerts, even earlier arrival (~4 hours before) is recommended, as Yas Island traffic can be heavy.
Summary of Costs
| Mode of Transport | Approximate Cost (One Way) |
|---|---|
| Driving from Abu Dhabi | AED 10–20 (fuel) + AED 4 (toll, peak hours) |
| Driving from Dubai | AED 30–50 (fuel) + AED 4 (toll, peak hours) |
| Public Transport (Dubai) | AED 30–40 (bus + transfers) |
| Public Transport (Abu Dhabi) | AED 4–6 (local bus) |
| General Parking | Free or AED 20–50 (event-dependent) |
| VIP Parking | AED 100–200 (or included in premium tickets) |
Nearby Attractions to Etihad Park
Etihad Park is located on Yas Island, one of Abu Dhabi’s top entertainment and leisure destinations. Here’s a detailed list of key attractions nearby — and why Etihad Park stands out as the better choice, depending on what you’re looking for.
1️⃣ Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
About: The world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park, known for Formula Rossa, the fastest rollercoaster on Earth (240 km/h). It offers thrilling rides, Ferrari exhibitions, family attractions, and driving simulators.
Why Etihad Park is better: Ferrari World is focused on rides and cars, but Etihad Park brings the energy of live music, global artists, cultural festivals, and massive crowd experiences — something no theme park ride can replicate.
2️⃣ Yas Waterworld
About: A large Emirati-themed water park with over 40 slides, wave pools, and water rides, ideal for families and thrill-seekers looking to cool off.
Why Etihad Park is better: While Yas Waterworld offers daytime water fun, Etihad Park offers nighttime excitement, world-class concerts, and cultural events that create unforgettable live experiences under the stars.
3️⃣ Yas Marina Circuit
About: The famous Formula 1 race track that hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and offers karting, driving experiences, and guided tours year-round.
Why Etihad Park is better: Yas Marina Circuit is all about motorsports, but Etihad Park complements it with the adrenaline of live entertainment, massive crowds, and iconic after-race concerts — it’s where the party happens after the race.
4️⃣ Yas Mall
About: One of Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping centers, with over 370 stores, dining outlets, cinemas, and entertainment zones.
Why Etihad Park is better: Yas Mall is great for shopping, but Etihad Park delivers a communal, energetic atmosphere where thousands come together for shared cultural and musical moments, making it more of a memory-maker.
5️⃣ Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
About: A fully indoor theme park with rides, shows, and characters from DC Comics, Looney Tunes, and Hanna-Barbera — perfect for families with young kids.
Why Etihad Park is better: Warner Bros. World offers immersive themed entertainment, but Etihad Park offers the flexibility of global-scale events — from adult-only concerts to family-friendly festivals — making it a more versatile destination.
6️⃣ CLYMB Abu Dhabi
About: Home to the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall and largest indoor skydiving chamber, ideal for adventure lovers.
Why Etihad Park is better: CLYMB gives you personal adventure, but Etihad Park delivers collective excitement, letting you be part of something huge — a crowd roaring with live music, lights, and celebration.
Why Etihad Park is the Better Choice
✅ Unmatched live atmosphere — the emotional high of thousands singing, dancing, or celebrating together is something no rollercoaster, shopping mall, or climbing wall can match.
✅ Event flexibility — unlike the nearby attractions, Etihad Park transforms throughout the year, offering concerts, festivals, cultural celebrations, fitness events, and global artist performances.
✅ Cultural & international appeal — Etihad Park draws big names from every continent, making it a hub not just for tourists but also locals looking for unforgettable moments.
✅ Part of the Yas Island ecosystem — visitors can easily combine an event at Etihad Park with a daytime visit to Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, or Yas Mall — but it’s the night at Etihad Park that often becomes the highlight of the trip.
Visitor Tips
Visiting Etihad Park can be an unforgettable experience — if you plan it right. Here’s a detailed set of tips to help you make the most of your visit, whether you’re attending a massive concert, family festival, or cultural event.
🕰️ Arrive Early
For big events, especially Formula 1 after-race concerts or global artist performances, arrive at least 2–3 hours before showtime. This helps you avoid Yas Island traffic, secure good parking, and settle in comfortably before the crowds build.
🚗 Plan Your Transport
If you’re coming from Abu Dhabi city or Dubai, driving is the fastest and most flexible option. From Dubai, expect around 1 hour of drive time, while public transport may take over 3 hours. Carpooling or using ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber can save parking stress.
🎫 Check Your Ticket Details
Make sure you know:
✅ Your entry gate
✅ Whether you have general admission or VIP access
✅ If parking or shuttle services are included
✅ Any age restrictions, especially for family members
👨👩👧👦 Family Visitors
While Etihad Park is famous for adult-focused concerts, some events (like Mother of the Nation Festival or family festivals during Eid) are family-friendly, with special zones, kids’ entertainment, and flexible seating. Always check if there’s a family day or age-specific policy before booking.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Remember, this is an open-air venue.
In summer (June–August), wear light, breathable clothes, sunscreen, and a hat; stay hydrated.
In winter (November–February), bring a light jacket, especially for late-night events.
🍴 Budget for Food & Drinks
Etihad Park’s food stalls and bars are varied but can be pricey:
Meals: AED 30–70
Soft drinks: AED 10–20
Alcohol: AED 50–100
Outside food and drinks are not allowed, so plan your budget accordingly.
🎶 Why Etihad Park Over Other Parks?
While UAE has many beautiful parks like Dubai Safari Park, Shees Park, Mushrif Park, Zabeel Park, Umm Al Emarat Park, Quranic Park, Sharjah Safari Park, Sharjah Desert Park, Mangrove National Park, Sharjah National Park, Wild Wadi Water Park, Al Nahda Pond Park, Creek Park, Karama Park, Al Barsha Pond Park, and Al Mamzar Beach Park, Etihad Park offers something entirely different — live, large-scale events, global concerts, cultural festivals, and collective crowd energy that no botanical garden or nature reserve can match.
Customer Reviews
Etihad Park has welcomed thousands of visitors over the years — from families and couples to groups of friends and corporate guests. Here’s a detailed look at realistic customer-style reviews, reflecting both the highlights and the areas where people felt there was room for improvement.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5
Sarah Al Mazrouei, Marketing Executive, Dubai
“We visited Etihad Park as a family for the Mother of the Nation Festival, and it was truly a fantastic experience. The kids enjoyed the dedicated play areas, live music, and art installations. My husband and I loved the food truck selection — the Emirati dishes were a highlight! There were plenty of clean restrooms, and the staff were helpful. However, parking was a bit stressful; we arrived 1.5 hours before the event and still ended up far from the main gate. It would be great if they improve shuttle services or better direct the parking flow during big events. Still, overall, a memorable family day out.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
James Patel, IT Consultant, Abu Dhabi
“Attended the Post Malone concert with friends, and Etihad Park did not disappoint! The sound system was world-class, and the crowd energy was unreal. We had general admission tickets, and even though it was packed, security managed the crowd well. The drink queues were long — waited nearly 30 minutes for a beer — so I’d suggest they add more bar counters for big events. Getting out after the concert took some time due to traffic, but that’s expected with a crowd of this size. We’re already planning to come back for the next F1 after-race concert.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Aisha Khan, School Teacher, Sharjah
“We came to Etihad Park during Eid holidays with extended family — grandparents, kids, and cousins. It was so well organized for families! There was a special seating zone away from the loudest areas, plenty of space for kids to run around, and even quiet rest spots for elders. The light shows and cultural performances were beautiful. What stood out was how clean they kept the venue despite the huge crowds. The only downside was the food prices — AED 60 for a burger felt steep, but we expected it. We loved it and recommend it as a family-friendly event destination.”
⭐⭐⭐ 3.5/5
Mohammed Rahman, University Student, Al Ain
“Went for the Formula 1 after-race concert, and while the artist lineup was insane, the experience had some ups and downs. Positive: VIP section was worth it — great view, less crowded, free drinks, and exclusive restrooms. Negative: shuttle buses after the event were chaotic, and the staff at the exit points seemed overwhelmed. Also, I wish they had more vegetarian food options. Still, the atmosphere inside was electric, and you just can’t beat the energy of being at a live show like this!”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Lina Santos, Travel Blogger, Philippines
“As a first-time visitor to Abu Dhabi, I went to Etihad Park for the Andrea Bocelli concert, and it was pure magic. The setting under the open sky, the acoustics, and the crowd vibe were unforgettable. I appreciated how accessible everything was — from clear signages to friendly ushers helping international guests. Entry was smooth, restrooms were clean, and they even had complimentary water stations (nice surprise!). One thing: the walk from general parking to the venue was longer than expected, so comfy shoes are a must. Etihad Park is now on my must-visit list whenever I’m in the UAE.”
Overall Visitor Rating: 4.5 / 5
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere & vibe | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Facilities & cleanliness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Food & beverage | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Accessibility & parking | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Family-friendliness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Value for money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
FAQs about Park
1️⃣ Q: Is Etihad Park suitable for families with children?
Yes! While many headline concerts are adult-focused, Etihad Park regularly hosts family-friendly events, especially during Eid, UAE National Day, or festivals like the Mother of the Nation Festival. These events often have dedicated family zones, kids’ entertainment, and quieter seating areas. However, for major concerts, check the age restrictions — some require children under 16 to be accompanied by an adult, and some over-21 events may not permit children at all.
2️⃣ Q: Is parking available at Etihad Park, and how much does it cost?
Yes, Etihad Park offers general, VIP, and accessible parking. General parking is often free but can cost AED 20–50 during large events. VIP parking near the entrance is around AED 100–200 or included with premium tickets. For the best spots, arrive 2–3 hours before the event. Free shuttle buses also operate from Yas Mall or Yas Marina Circuit during mega-events.
3️⃣ Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks inside Etihad Park?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside Etihad Park due to security and licensing regulations. However, there are plenty of food trucks, kiosks, and beverage counters inside, offering a variety of international cuisines, snacks, and drinks. You can expect prices of around AED 30–70 for food and AED 10–20 for soft drinks.
4️⃣ Q: How do I get to Etihad Park using public transport from Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
From Abu Dhabi city, take bus line 102 to Yas Island (Ferrari World stop). From Dubai, there’s no direct public transport — you’ll need to take an intercity bus to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, then transfer to bus 102. Note that public transport can take 2.5–3.5 hours from Dubai, so most visitors prefer to drive or use ride-hailing apps for convenience.
5️⃣ Q: What makes Etihad Park different from other UAE parks like Dubai Safari Park, Mushrif Park, or Sharjah Safari Park?
Etihad Park is not a nature or wildlife park — it’s the UAE’s largest open-air live event venue. Unlike parks such as Dubai Safari Park, Mushrif Park, or Sharjah Safari Park, Etihad Park offers massive concerts, cultural festivals, and live entertainment under the stars. It’s where people come for music, lights, energy, and unforgettable shared moments — a totally different experience from nature-based or family picnic parks.
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